Conclusions
Abstract
At the heart of this book lies the argument that European cities must be recognised as agents of international relations, not merely as implementers of national or EU policies. Foreign policy has long been conceptualised as the domain of states and foreign ministries, but the evidence presented here shows that this view no longer reflects reality. Cities are increasingly active in the international sphere, forming partnerships, joining networks, and sometimes addressing issues that higher levels of government are reluctant or unable to address. Their growing agency requires analytical tools that move beyond a state-centric lens.
Fields of Study & Subjects
International Relations and Foreign Policy
Cross-Border Cooperation and Integration
Global Urban Networks and Dynamics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 149–156
- Publication date
- 12 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter